Your Best Guide to Solar Panel Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
If you are already considering and learning more about solar system implementation, you likely know that it’s a significant investment. No doubt, solar energy brings numerous benefits, including saving on energy bills, boosting property value, and reducing your carbon footprint. Thus, you need to ensure the best preparation and avoid the common solar panel installation mistakes to get the best outcome.
With such a large investment, there is little room for error. Common solar panel mistakes, such as poor planning or selecting the wrong equipment, can have significant consequences. As a worst-case scenario, you will need to consider how to get rid of solar panels that bring more problems than benefits.
To help you get the most out of your green energy system, we will discuss the top solar panel mistakes and how to avoid them. You will learn what your main concerns should be, how to prepare for panel installation, and which solar panel companies to avoid.
No Assessment of the Roof Condition
Why it matters:
This is one of the most common solar panel installation mistakes. Solar panels are heavy and are installed for a longer period; the average lifetime of the panels is 25-30 years. That’s why having your roof in good condition is a crucial step before planning the installation.
Installing solar panels on an old or damaged roof can lead to significant future problems. You may need to remove the entire system to make roof repairs, which would result in extra labor and cost.
What to do instead:
Have your roof inspected by a professional before installation. Ensure it’s in good shape and has at least as many years left as the lifespan of your solar system. Performing the repairs before installation will save you a significant amount of time and money. Note that some solar installation companies include roof repairs in their list of services; you can verify this with the installer you select.
Choosing the Wrong Installer
Why it matters:
One might think that solar system installation is simply about adjusting the panels on the racks, but it’s more complicated. The responsibilities of the installer include everything from roof inspection to grid connection. They also cover all the documentation, including solar incentive applications. Choosing an inexperienced or unlicensed contractor can result in code violations, inefficient installations, or even safety hazards.
What to do instead:
Look for certified installers (such as NABCEP-certified professionals). Learn about their experience in your area, as local rules, weather conditions, and other factors vary from state to state. Read reviews, ask for references, request quotes, and compare the offers before making a decision.
Online reviews should not be your only source of truth. However, these reviews can help to identify the major concerns about the installer and help you understand which solar panel companies to avoid.
Underestimating Energy Needs
Why it matters:
Solar systems differ in design, productivity, and, consequently, in price. Evaluating your energy needs is the first step when going solar. Knowing your current needs and potential future spending will help you choose the right system size. If your system isn’t sized properly, you may not generate enough electricity or overspend on panels you don’t need.
What to do instead:
Analyze your electricity usage over the past 12 months to accurately estimate your energy needs. Factor in any lifestyle changes (like buying an EV or adding HVAC systems) that could affect future consumption. Choose the right solar installer to help you make the right calculations.
Poor Panel Placement or Orientation
Why it matters:
Solar panels cannot be installed just anywhere on your roof. It is crucial to identify the right location for the system. You should consider factors such as the household’s location and potential shade from nearby trees or buildings. The main idea is to find the location with the maximum solar concentration to maximize the output of your system. Panels that are shaded, poorly tilted, or facing the wrong direction will produce less energy than expected.
What to do instead:
Ensure your installer performs a solar site assessment to determine the optimal placement of your solar system. In the U.S., panels should typically face true south with a tilt angle close to your latitude.
Source: Solarismypassion
Ignoring Permits and Inspections
Why it matters:
The local authority should inspect all installed solar systems and obtain all necessary permits required by the state. Failing to obtain necessary permits can result in fines, delays, or even the removal of the system if you’re found to have violated building or electrical codes.
What to do instead:
Work with a licensed installer who understands your local permitting and inspection process. Most professional companies will handle this for you.
Falling for Sales Tricks or Low-Cost Systems
Why it matters:
Some installers may compromise equipment quality, system design, or service to offer lower prices. This can result in purchasing bad solar panels with poor performance or early failure.
What to do instead:
Here’s an unpopular opinion: don’t choose only based on price – that’s a rookie solar panel mistake. Do your homework and evaluate product warranties, installer experience, and system performance estimates to make informed decisions. Here’s how you can do it: get solar quotes and compare the offers. This information will help you make an informed decision when selecting the panel brand and the installer to work with.
Not Including Battery Storage When It Makes Sense
Why it matters:
Battery storage is an optional part of a solar system, but it can be essential for your exact case. If you live in an area with frequent power outages or low net metering credits, you may miss the primary solar benefits without a battery system.
Source: Treehugger
What to do instead:
Assess your energy situation and goals. Think about how important it is for your household to have an independent source of energy. Batteries add cost but can provide backup power and improve self-consumption. Discuss with your installer whether storage is a worthwhile investment for your specific situation.
Overlooking Incentives and Tax Credits
Why it matters:
Failing to apply for solar incentives, tax credits, or rebates can cost you thousands of dollars, and professional help with applications will save you time.
What to do instead:
Whenever you start calculating the overall cost of your solar system, keep in mind all the incentives and local programs that can save you money.
Research available federal, state, and local incentives before you sign a contract. In 2025, the federal solar tax credit (ITC) still offers a 30% deduction for residential systems. Additionally, some states offer local programs that may provide additional benefits. Ask your installer about all the programs available.
Not Monitoring System Performance After Installation
Why it matters:
If your system underperforms or a component fails, you might not notice unless you actively track your solar production.
What to do instead:
Install a solar monitoring system (many inverters include one) and check it regularly. Some apps alert you to any drops in performance or failures, so you’ll know about the potential issue before it happens and be able to prevent it. Discuss it with your installer; some companies provide a monitoring system for free as part of their service.
Source: Sistine Solar
Not Planning Future Expansion
Why it matters:
If you later want to add more panels or install an EV charger, a poorly designed system may not have the capacity or compatibility.
What to do instead:
Ask your installer to build a system that is future-proof. What may it include? The design may involve leaving space on your roof, using modular components, or oversizing your inverter.
Final Thoughts
Implementing a solar system is a fantastic idea if everything is planned and done correctly. Avoiding common solar system mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration. Before deciding to go solar, make sure to learn more about the solar industry. Investigate which solar panels are the most efficient, how to avoid solar panel defects, how to select the best solar panel installers for your energy needs, and which solar panel companies to avoid in your region. Thus, you can also ensure that your system achieves the energy savings you anticipate. For the next several decades, you will be able to get the most out of your solar investment if you engage with installers who have a good reputation, do your homework, and plan ahead.
